Highlights of Central Taiwan: The Central Region International Light Spots Project Launches

By Chi Bing-hui, compiled and reported

Central Taiwan boasts abundant tourism resources. In recent years, the number of unique restaurants has surged, and arts and cultural spaces have flourished, adding even more vibrancy to the region. On the 24th, the Tourism Bureau of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications and the Taiwan Seen Foundation held the “Central Region International Light Spots” launch ceremony, announcing that they will start from Taichung’s Calligraphy Greenway and gradually extend to Chiayi, Nantou, and other areas. The initiative will integrate various sectors such as gourmet feasts, local culture, and natural ecology to highlight the splendid characteristics of Central Taiwan. The first phase of the plan has already partnered with 51 local businesses, aiming to attract more visitors to explore Central Taiwan.

Liu Xilin, Deputy Director of the Tourism Bureau of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications, stated that Taiwan’s tourism industry has evolved from focusing on hardware resources to emphasizing “soft power.” Local stories and humanistic elements can touch people’s hearts even more. Through the promotion of the Light Spots project, the bureau aims to attract more international travelers to visit Central Taiwan.

The “Central Region International Light Spots” is currently planned as a three-year project, aiming to create a new six-sense immersive travel experience themed “Lohas • Taste • Central Taiwan.” This approach emphasizes deeper connections with nature and cultural experiences, transforming travel from mere sightseeing and surface-level exploration into meaningful encounters and emotional resonance.

The current theme is “Lohas Learning Tour – Taichung,” with future expansions including “Lohas Tea Country – Chiayi” and “Lohas Mountain City – Nantou.” The Central Region light spots in Taichung are divided into categories such as cafes, gourmet restaurants, tea art venues, gift shops, and featured attractions. The list includes international restaurants and well-known stores along both sides of the Calligraphy Greenway and in the Jincheng area. Additionally, institutions like Chunmai Eslite, Lavender Cottage, and The Garden of Eden are also included. Many of these spots offer DIY experiences, and visitors can sign up in advance to participate.